Would this type of service be helpful to people?

[Dobbyafreeelf]

Looking for opinions on whether you would use or think about using a service such as the following when looking for care?

For context I’m a self employed carer currently but have been working in the care sector for over a decade. I’m looking to change my role/business over the coming months.

Basically what I’m proposing is offering a local service to help people who are trying to establish options with regard to their own or their relatives care. Being able to show them the different options locally both residential and within their own homes / community. To help them establish the right setting for their ongoing care.

So I would know the local care homes, nursing homes, agency’s and independent carers and help clients to work out what might work for themselves or their relative.

I know social services offer something similar. But I’m taking about for the clients who are not eligible for social service help or who would like a more personalised experience.

Many charities already offer these options. I work for one that supports with advocacy and information and advice to support older people. Within our area we liaise with council, social services and other organisations to provide joined up support within a strong framework. This includes safeguarding for clients and their relatives. We do not charge for these services.

I wouldn't directly be recommending or not recommending any services. Just laying out the available options as they are and letting people have the information to make a fully informed choice.

Then, put bluntly, what is the point of your service? You're not telling people anything that they can't already find out from AgeUK or social services. In the time they've told you about what they're looking for, they could have got the information for free.

People need someone to help them make a decision, not to say 'here's some information now I'm stepping away'.

I'd also question how much care homes are going to want to engage with you, without a commercial agreement. They don't have time for third parties to be calling making vague enquiries.

I do think there is a market for a service of this type, but it needs to be far more specialised than what you are describing. I'd expect you to have sufficient knowledge to guide a client through every step of the process - funding, CHC, benefits, as well as a thorough knowledge of the relevant homes and care services. You'd need to know each element so well that liability wouldn't even be an issue, if there was a complaint you could evidence and justify every input you had.

They manage to stay independent. So it's worth talking to them

CHS are not truly independent as they only recommend from a pool of providers that have subscribed to their scheme. They're the equivalent of a tied mortgage broker, they'll recommend the best deal for you, but only from the lenders they work with/ receive payment from.